Chapter 84

In the Sabella mansion, as soon as the Sabellas arrived, Clement exploded before Elaine could react.

“Can’t you be more sensible? Don’t you realize what kind of occasion this is? I’ve warned you repeatedly not to let Naomi disrupt tonight’s event. I never expected you to be the ones causing the disruption!”

Elaine, her face pale with anger, rushed toward Clement. “Clement, you’re blaming us? None of this would have happened if it weren’t for you! You had an affair with Lily, even fathering twin sons with her. How could you do this to us?”

Elaine’s accusation stung, but Clement, though momentarily guilty, maintained an angry expression as he vented his frustration.

Seeing his silence, Elaine’s fury intensified. “You were so self-righteous just now. Why aren’t you saying anything now? Explain your involvement with Lily! Clement, I’m divorcing you. Pack your bags and get out!”

Clement dismissed her words, secure in his familial power. Their divorce required his agreement.

Madelyn interjected indignantly, “Dad, you’ve crossed the line. How could you treat Mom like this? How could you have an illegitimate child—two, in fact—outside of the marriage? Instead of blaming Mom and me, admit your mistakes!”

Clement’s expression softened slightly when he looked at Madelyn and Henry, his concern for Henry particularly evident. After a moment, he sighed. “Lily is alone in Ashburgh, and I couldn’t bear to see her struggle. Elaine, Lily is gentle and unambitious. Why make things difficult for her? As for our marriage, I will never divorce you. You are the only one in my heart. I hope you can be more understanding and accept Lily.”

Tears streamed down Elaine’s face. “Make things difficult for her? When have I ever done that? Have I ever ignored her? My kindness has turned you all against me! And you want me to be more understanding and accept her? Clement, how?”

Elaine found his words absurd. Madelyn, frustrated by Clement's attitude and his unwillingness to dismiss Lily and the twins, felt powerless.

Turning to Henry, she pleaded, “Henry, our family is a mess. Say something! Don’t stay silent!”

Tears welled in Elaine’s eyes as she looked at Henry. “Henry, your father is being unfair. You must speak up for your mother. You must stand by me.”

Elaine knew their pleas were likely futile; only Henry could truly challenge Clement.

Seeing their point made, Henry stepped forward, addressing Clement. “Dad, I’ll take care of Lily and her twin sons. Please sign these stock transfer agreements.”

Henry’s directness shocked Clement. He glanced at the agreements. “Henry, what do you mean?”

Henry replied calmly, “Dad, the company and family shares will eventually belong to Madelyn and me. You, Mom, and Grandpa all agree. Since it’s inevitable, why not sign now?”

Madelyn examined the agreements. Henry had divided their father’s shares equally between them; an additional agreement was attached to her transfer document.